Best Demo Derby Steering Column Kits for Tough Tracks
The following article highlights five demo derby steering column kits from Speedway Motors that are well-suited for American demolition derby builds. Each kit converges on reliability, rigidity, and quick-wheel changes to keep drivers in control during rough competition. The selections cover a range of vehicle platforms commonly used in derby events, from late-70s full-size cars to GM and Ford/Mercury platforms.
Summary of chosen products:
- Speedway Motors Demo Derby Steering Column Kit, includes steel steering wheel, quick release hub, U-joint, and shaft – 1969–1976 Cadillac compatibility
- Complete Demo Derby Steering Column Kit, includes steering wheel, quick release, U-joints, shaft, heims – 1972–78 Ford/Mercury full-size
- Demo Derby Steering Column Kit, Crown Vic – 1979–2002 Crown Victoria
- Demo Derby Steering Column Kit, 78–96 GM Fullsize – GM full-size platforms
- Speedway Motors Complete Demo Derby Steering Column Kit – 1971–76 GM full-size
Table of product highlights provides a quick reference to the core capabilities and intended platforms.
| Product | Brand | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Speedway Motors Demo Derby Steering Column Kit | Speedway Motors | Steel wheel, quick release hub, U-joint, shaft; Cadillac 1969–1976 |
| Complete Demo Derby Steering Column Kit | Speedway Motors | All-in-one kit; steel wheel; forged steel U-joints |
| Demo Derby Steering Column Kit, Crown Vic | Speedway Motors | For 1979–2002 Crown Victoria; includes wheel, U-joints, quick release |
| Demo Derby Steering Column Kit, 78-96 GM | Speedway Motors | GM full-size 1978–1996; wheel, U-joints, quick release |
| Complete Demo Derby Steering Column Kit, 1971–76 GM | Speedway Motors | All-in-one with wheel, hub, U-joints; 1971–76 GM |
Speedway Motors Demo Derby Steering Column Kit
This kit provides the major components needed to assemble a steering column for a demolition derby vehicle. It fits 1969–1976 Cadillac full-size models, including DeVille and Fleetwood variants. The included steel steering wheel features a rubber cushion grip built to withstand derby conditions. The package also includes the necessary hardware to simplify steering system fabrication and installation for compatible Cadillac builds.
Complete Demo Derby Steering Column Kit (Ford/Mercury)
This all-in-one kit contains everything needed to build a custom steering column for 1972–78 Ford and Mercury full-size derby cars. It includes a steel steering wheel designed to endure harsh derby conditions, plus forged steel U-joints for durable, reliable operation compared to stock-style joints. The setup is aimed at minimizing installation hassles while maximizing steering responsiveness under race conditions.
Demo Derby Steering Column Kit, Crown Vic
This kit targets 1979–2002 Crown Victoria derby builds. It includes a steel steering wheel, appropriate U-joints, a quick release, heims, jam nuts, and a steering shaft. The configuration emphasizes robust construction suitable for derby track demands and straightforward installation for Crown Vic chassis.
Demo Derby Steering Column Kit, 78-96 GM
Designed for 1978–1996 GM full-size derby cars, this kit includes a steel steering wheel engineered for derby resilience, along with the correct U-joints, quick release, heims, jam nuts, and steering shaft. The assembly aims to deliver a reliable steering path in high-impact derby scenarios and solid alignment with GM full-size frames.
Speedway Motors Complete Demo Derby Steering Column Kit (GM 71–76)
This all-in-one kit provides a complete steering solution for 1971–1976 GM full-size derby cars. The package includes a heavy-duty steel wheel, quick-release hub, U-joints, shaft, and mounting hardware designed to withstand derby-style driving. The push-button quick-release feature enables rapid wheel changes during competition.
Speedway Motors Adjustable Steering Column Mounting Bracket (1.75″ Clamp)
This bracket offers adjustable positioning for a 3/4″ steering shaft with up/down and side-to-side movement. It uses 6061 aluminum and is designed for 1.75″ clamp size, with optional clamp configurations to fit varied derby mounting needs. The design aims to improve driver comfort and control during races by enabling precise alignment and stable column support.
Speedway Motors Adjustable Steering Column Bracket (1.25″–1.75″ Clamps)
These adjustable brackets provide multiple clamp options (1.25″, 1.5″, and 1.75″ clamps) to support diverse steering column configurations in oval track and demolition derby environments. The CNC 6061 aluminum construction offers light yet sturdy support, aiding consistent alignment and durable operation under rough derby conditions.
iiLentes 32” Universal Column Shift Tilt Steering Wheel
This universal column combines tilt adjustment, a 32″ length, and a GM-style electrical plug for compatibility with GM columns. It includes a 9-hole GM steering wheel adapter, plus turn signal and hazard wiring. The Tilt feature aims to improve driver visibility and comfort, while the plug-and-play wiring simplifies integration into GM-based derby builds.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Demo Derby Steering Columns
Choosing the right steering column kit for demolition derby involves balancing compatibility, durability, and ease of installation. Consider the following perspectives:
- Vehicle compatibility: Confirm the model year range and platform of your derby car (GM, Ford/Mercury, Crown Vic, Cadillac) and select a kit designed for that chassis to minimize modification work.
- Material and build quality: Steel wheels and forged steel U-joints tend to resist impact better than lighter components. Powder-coated finishes can help resist corrosion and wear along the track.
- Mounting and adjustability: Adjustable brackets offer better driver comfort and control, especially on longer events. Verify clamp sizes and mounting options to fit your shaft diameter and frame geometry.
- Wheel quick-release design: A reliable quick-release hub enables fast wheel removal during maintenance or in case of an on-track issue. Look for spring-loaded or secure locking mechanisms that deter accidental detachment.
- Electrical integration: For columns with integrated wiring or GM-style plugs, ensure compatibility with your vehicle’s electrical system. Pre-wired switches help ensure consistent signaling during events.
- Installation scope: Some kits are “all-in-one” systems; others require sourcing additional U-joints or mounting hardware separately. Assess whether you want a complete solution or modular parts for a custom build.
- Maintenance and replacement: Consider the availability of spare parts (joints, hubs, shafts) and ease of service after a derby event. Durability often correlates with the ability to source compatible aftermarket components.
- Safety certifications and regulations: Check local competition rules for required safety features, such as proper steering shaft protection, wheel retention, and crash safety considerations.
In summary, selecting the right kit entails matching the car’s platform with a robust steering column assembly, ensuring dependable operation under extreme conditions, and prioritizing ease of maintenance and installation for quick track-ready readiness.